Unexpected giant cell aortitis in a young patient. (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nair, Lawrence; Senanayake, Eshan; Thomson, Bruce
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgery case reports. Volume 81(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: Giant cell -- Aortitis -- Aortopathy -- Cardiac surgery -- Aneurysm; Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Operative -- Periodicals; Surgery; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2021.105741
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-2612

Abstract

Highlights: Giant cell aortitis is a rare cause of aortic aneurysm and the incidence of this in a young patient with no prior cardiovascular risk factors remains unknown. Patients presenting with aneurysms caused by giant cell aortitis are at high risk of devastating complications. Intraoperative tissue assessment played a valuable role in providing a secure long-term durable outcome. Abstract: Introduction and importance: Giant cell aortitis is a rare cause of ascending aortic aneurysm disease. Patients presenting with aneurysms caused by giant cell aortitis are at high risk of devastating complications. Case presentation: A 35-year-old female with an ascending aortic aneurysm, underwent an aortic root and ascending aorta replacement and subsequently was found to have giant cell aortitis on histopathology. Discussion and conclusion: This case illustrates a very rare cause for aortopathy in a young healthy patient, who may have ruptured or dissected, if not for timely operative intervention.